Tillandsia ionantha is part of the Bromeliaceae family and its native range is Mexico to Central America. It is an epiphyte or lithophyte, growing primarily in the seasonally dry tropical biome. Leaf colouration is a beautiful silvery green with the centre becoming bright red when the plant blooms (in its natural environment this is to attractive hummingbird pollinators).
The genus name was given by Carl Linnaeus to honour the Swedish physician and botanist Elias Tillandz (originally Tillander).
Size: Approximately 15cm in across.
Light: Bright indirect light, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive. South or east facing windows are great and remember the higher the humidity in your space, the more light the plant can tolerate.
Water: You can mist it 2-3 times a week and soak your plant every couple of weeks for 5-10 minutes in tepid water. If you opt to dunk/soak your Tillandsia, gently shake excess water off and turn it upside down so that no water remains trapped between the leaves. Good air circulation is important for Tillandsia. Watering is dependent on how much light the plant is receiving as well as temperature and humidity. Watering ought to be done in the morning time in order to extend drying time.
Fertilising: Feed every other month during the growing season. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: 10-32˚C.
Humidity: Moderate humidity, 60%.
Tillandsia are non-toxic.